The 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution gives all Americans the right to bear arms. People in North Carolina and across the country have the inherent right to own a firearm in order to defend themselves. When you reside in North Carolina, you must comply with state and federal firearms laws. If you disregard firearms laws, you could face criminal charges. It is helpful to understand how to remain compliant with the current gun laws of our state.
What are the Requirements to Own a Gun in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, an adult age 18 or over may purchase a firearm. To buy a handgun, you will need to have current N.C. identification. You must pass a United States background check, which is typically submitted through the firearm dealer. The gun store will submit a completed form to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). A convicted felon is not allowed to purchase, own, or carry a firearm of any type.
Do I Need a Permit for Concealed Carry?
Concealed carry means that you have a firearm with you that is not located in plain sight. Currently, the law requires you to have a concealed carry permit in order to conceal carry. Concealment isn’t limited to your person. It also includes concealment, such as in a vehicle. A gun could be concealed in the glove compartment, in the center console, in a backpack or purse, or even under the seat. Current concealed carry laws require a gun owner to be at least 21 years of age and complete a training course before they may obtain a concealed carry permit.
Are There Restrictions for Carrying a Handgun?
There are some restrictions in place regarding where you can conceal carry a firearm. You are prohibited from carrying a firearm into law enforcement facilities and correctional facilities. In addition, you may not bring a concealed gun to anyplace where it is prohibited by law, as well as to private properties where they are prohibited. You may bring a gun onto school property, into a funeral, or onto federal property only if you have a permit and the gun is kept in a locked container inside your vehicle.
North Carolina Senate Bill 50
North Carolina Senate Bill 50 was passed last year by the state legislature but was vetoed by the governor. The legislation would have removed the requirement for North Carolina residents to have concealed carry permits. If it were approved, you would be allowed to conceal a weapon. It is important to note that you would still be required by law to inform law enforcement of a concealed weapon during any interaction with them. Until and unless the legislation is approved, those who own guns must have a permit to conceal carry.
If you are facing weapons charges, you will want to contact a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Call us today at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, at (704) 370-2828 to request a consultation with our legal team.
The criminal defense attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC make it their mission to zealously defend their clients on a wide range of criminal matters at both the state and federal levels. These matters may include any charge from traffic offenses; DWI/DUI; drug charges (from simple possession to possession with intent to distribute and trafficking); gun permit denials; weapons offenses; and property crimes (larceny, breaking and entering, robbery, fraud, embezzlement, white collar offenses); to sexually related offenses (indecent exposure; sexual assault, crimes against nature, removal from sex offender registry); and violent crimes (domestic violence; assault; manslaughter; homicide, murder). Other legal issues that Arnold & Smith, PLLC criminal clients may be facing include restraining orders, restraining order and probation violations, expungements; appeals; and immigration issues related to criminal charges. Our criminal defense attorneys are passionate about ensuring that individuals empower themselves by being informed about their constitutional rights and stand at the ready to fight in the defense of those facing criminal charges.
Source:
https://ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S50
https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/nics
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